In the Maxim Institute Column this week, Researcher Maryanne Spurdle looks at our idea that the government can solve all our problems. She questions the optimism of wealthy Kiwis pleading for higher taxes, highlighting the diminishing returns of government spending in critical sectors. Instead, she urges us to support grassroots organisations already making an extraordinary impact. Maryanne shows how community initiatives can address affordable housing, food insecurity, and financial illiteracy issues. She explores the power of people-led solutions and why they surpass centralised services.